Update to the latest release of QuickBooks Desktop

Learn how to update the latest release of QuickBooks Desktop.

You can update your QuickBooks Desktop to the latest release either manually or automatically. If you turn on Automatic Update, you're allowing QuickBooks to download the latest updates, whether or not the program is running. If you wish to turn this feature off, we recommend manually updating QuickBooks once a month.

We explain how to update your QuickBooks Desktop both ways.

A few words about upgrading

Updating to a new release (example: R3P to R5P) usually requires a minor change to the database. These changes will not make the data file incompatible with earlier releases.

This is different than upgrading to a new product version (example: 2017 to 2018) where the changes are major.

Manual update: 3 options

Option 1: Download from the Internet

Select the appropriate link for your QuickBooks version. When you run this installer, it will update your existing software to the latest release instead of reinstalling the product. You won't need your license or product number to do this.

ULIP (Ultra Light Patch) is a feature in QuickBooks Desktop where minor critical fixes can be delivered without the need for an actual release patch. The patch release process will continue as is (R releases such as 2017 R5).

Use the same steps as Option 2 to apply the critical fixes. Ensure Critical Fixes is selected before you download the updates.

Automatic update: 3 options

Option 1: Download and install automatic update NOW

From the QuickBooks Help menu, select Update QuickBooks.

On the Update QuickBooks window, go to the Update Now tab. You can ignore the table because you don't need to change anything.

(Optional) Put a check mark in the box Reset Update box to erase all previous update downloads. (Note: This may increase the amount of time needed for the update.)

Select Get Updates.

Restart QuickBooks. When prompted, accept the option to install the new release.

Option 2: Download automatically in the future

From the Help menu, select Update QuickBooks.

On the Update QuickBooks window, go to the Options tab.

To turn on automatic updates, select the radio button for Yes.

(Optional) To share automatic downloads with other computers on your network, select the radio button for Yes.

Select Close. QuickBooks will now download the update when it's released.